WORST DICTATOR IN 2007
Robert Mugabe
Zimbabwe.
Age 82.
In power since 1980.
-Robert Mugabe once was hailed as a symbol of the new Africa, but under his rule the health and well-being of his people have dropped dramatically, which is as much an abuse of human rights as arbitrary arrest and torture.
-According to the World Health Organization, Zimbabwe has the world’s shortest life expectancy—37 years for men and 34 for women.
-It also has the greatest percentage of orphans (about 25%, says UNICEF) & worst annual inflation rate (1,281% as of last month).
He last allowed an election in 2002 but “won” only after having his leading opponent arrested for treason.
Situation in Zimbabwe
Four and a half months have passed since the people of Zimbabwe voted for Morgan Tsvangirai and the Movement for Democratic Change on 29 March. Hyperinflation has exploded to an unimaginable 40,000,000%, and millions now face starvation.
The EU, US, and UK have pledged a $1.9bn financial aid package to stabilise Zimbabwe's economy, feed the hungry and combat hyperinflation -- but only if Mugabe is removed.
Meanwhile, distribution of food aid by local and international humanitarian agencies has been prohibited by Mugabe's government. Torture camps remain in operation, political violence continues in some rural provinces, and 12 opposition MPs languish in jail on trumped-up charges. The Mbeki-led talks are collapsing, as Mugabe and his military high command insist on retaining control.